XLRI Jamshedpur hosts 23rd VIL & Corporate Programmes Convocation
Jamshedpur, April 5: “Balance your work and personal life, build resilience, and never give up,” said Firdose Vandrevala, Founder Chairman and Managing Partner of “The Firm,” while addressing the 23rd Graduation Ceremony for XLRI’s VIL and Corporate Programmes at the Tata Auditorium, Jamshedpur on Saturday. The distinguished leader, who is also the former Managing Director of Tata Power and Deputy MD of Tata Steel, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, inspiring 314 working professionals graduating from six specialised management programmes.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the participants, all working professionals, who completed rigorous academic programmes while balancing professional responsibilities. Representing diverse industries and backgrounds, the graduates belonged to the following cohorts:
- PGCBM Batch 42
- PGCHRM Batch 34
- PGCHRM (Accenture) Batch 8
- PGCGM Batch 2
- EDHRM Batch 18
- EDABS Batch 1
In his address, Vandrevala, an alumnus and former faculty member of XLRI, congratulated the graduates and acknowledged the vital support extended by their families, friends, and faculty members. Sharing insights from his illustrious career, he offered ten guiding principles for success. These included the development of intangible assets like concepts, competencies, and connections; maintaining an integrated view of challenges; cultivating domain expertise; fostering innovation; and striving for happiness and personal well-being.
Mr. Vandrevala also emphasized the importance of avoiding the “seven deadly sins” and urged the audience to stay true to their values. His address reflected both wisdom and inspiration, resonating deeply with the graduating class.
Academic Excellence Recognised
Six outstanding students were awarded Gold Medals for Academic Excellence:
- Tanya Malhotra (EDHRM)
- Vanshika Gupta (PGCHRM – Accenture)
- Puja Chatterjee (PGCGM – PwC)
- Shashank Shekhar (PGCBM)
- Prachi Painuly (PGCHRM)
- Vindhya Rajendran (EDABS)
Spotlight on EDHRM Graduates Making an Impact
A highlight of the event was the recognition of the Executive Diploma in Human Resource Management (EDHRM) cohort, comprising mid- to senior-level professionals with an average of 10 years of experience. Their contributions to industry showcased the real-world impact of the programme. Graduates achieved promotions to strategic roles such as Unit HR Head, Deputy General Manager, and Senior Manager.
Notable accomplishments of EDHRM alumni included:
- Winning the ET Emerging Leader Award
- Spearheading hospital expansion from 200 to 750 beds
- Leading cost-reduction initiatives that achieved a 15% decrease in workforce expenditure
- Driving strategic transitions and earning leadership accolades
- Resolving longstanding legal and HR challenges
- Enhancing organizational capabilities across tech, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare sectors
Leadership Speaks
The event was presided over by XLRI leadership including:
- Fr. Sebastian George, S.J. (Director)
- Sanjay Patro (Dean, Academics)
- Fr. Donald D’Silva, S.J. (Dean, Administration & Finance)
- Manoj Thomas (Associate Dean, VIL & Corporate Programmes)
Fr. George urged the graduates to use their skills for inclusive growth, addressing poverty and socio-economic challenges. “Let your knowledge serve society and uplift the marginalized,” he said.
Fr. Donald praised the Chief Guest’s remarkable journey and contributions to academia and industry, calling him a “role model for aspiring leaders.”
The convocation served as a powerful reminder of XLRI’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible, future-ready business leaders through flexible and innovative educational programmes, echoing its motto: For the Greater Good.
